First Solar has entered into a groundbreaking 15-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Cleantech Solar to supply its state-of-the-art thin-film solar module factory in India with renewable energy. In a strategic move, Cleantech Solar will undertake the construction of 150MW of solar and 17MW of wind capacity in Tamil Nadu, delivering around 7.3 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity to power First Solar's expansive 3.3GW factory in the region.
The solar and wind generation assets, expected to be fully operational by the third quarter of 2024, are anticipated to meet up to 70% of the factory's electricity requirements. This initiative underscores a significant commitment to sustainable energy practices and positions First Solar's Tamil Nadu facility as a global leader in responsible and vertically integrated solar manufacturing.
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As part of the comprehensive agreement, Cleantech Solar has also committed to procuring 150MW of India-made Series 7 thin-film solar panels from First Solar. These cutting-edge modules are slated for delivery in the first half of 2024, reinforcing the collaboration between the two companies in promoting eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
Sujoy Ghosh, Vice President and Managing Director of First Solar, India, emphasized the company's dedication to minimizing its environmental impact. Ghosh stated, “Our new manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu sets a high benchmark for responsible and sustainable vertically integrated solar manufacturing, not just in India, but globally.” He further highlighted the plant's water conservation efforts, relying entirely on tertiary treated reverse osmosis water from the city's sewage treatment plant and implementing a zero wastewater discharge system.
The Tamil Nadu facility goes beyond energy production, featuring a solar recycling plant employing closed-loop semiconductor recovery. This innovative process not only contributes to the creation of new modules but also facilitates the recovery of materials like aluminum, glass, and laminates.
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This pioneering agreement is recognized as one of the largest intra-state PPAs in India, demonstrating a significant stride in the country's renewable energy landscape. Cleantech Solar's involvement expands beyond this partnership, as its renewable energy parks in Tamil Nadu are already delivering solar, wind, and hybrid energy solutions to various corporate clients.
With this latest development, Cleantech Solar's overall portfolio in Tamil Nadu reaches nearly 500MW, spanning operational and under-construction stages. This comprehensive approach includes solar, wind, and hybrid power projects, solidifying Cleantech Solar's position as a key player in advancing sustainable energy solutions in the region.
